Boeing Advances MH-139A Gray Wolf Helicopter to Initial Low-Rate Production

Boeing is transitioning towards low rate initial production phase of the MH-139A Grey Wolf.

The completion of the Research, Development, Test & Evaluation (RDT&E) phase paved the way for Boeing to transition its focus to building the first production aircraft.

“Delivering all of the RDT&E aircraft to the Air Force enables them to continue critical operational testing and allows Boeing to focus on building the first production aircraft,” said Azeem Khan, MH-139 program director.

This shift in emphasis positions Boeing to accelerate the production of MH-139A Grey Wolf helicopters.

Boeing is on track to deliver the first low rate production aircraft to the customer in 2024. Under the existing contract, the company is committed to constructing the initial batch of 13 MH-139A helicopters, with the first of these aircraft already in the advanced stages of assembly. The overarching plan involves providing up to 80 MH-139A Grey Wolf helicopters to the U.S. Air Force.

The collaboration between Boeing, Leonardo Helicopters U.S., and the U.S.A.F. is expected to deepen as additional Grey Wolf helicopters are rolled out.

The MH-139A Grey Wolf, set to replace the aging UH-1N Huey, will play a pivotal role in safeguarding intercontinental ballistic missiles across the United States. Additionally, the helicopter will be tasked with the transportation of VIPs and security personnel, marking a crucial step forward in modernizing the Air Force's fleet and capabilities.